medication/remission

[mom2IS]

Hi everyone
I think I ask TOO many questions. But here goes...
I have been taking celebrex for my PA for about 7-8 months. I've been taking 200 mg 2x a day. Over the last week or so, I've noticed that I haven't needed it as much. I still have a little bit of pain in my feet though, but it's not unbearable. So here is my question, if I don't take it, and still have pain, does that mean joint damage is taking place? Should I take it even though the pain is not that bad. I think one of my toes and the sole of my foot is a tiny bit swollen. But I don't have the overall stiffness, knee swelling etc that I had a few months ago. Could this be a remission? I'm HOPING so. Perhaps the UVB is somehow helping my joints? I also feel MUCH better NOT taking the celebrex; not as tired and anxious. I don't know if that's a coincidence or not.
Thanks for listening!
Ally

[ouchyk]

Hi,

Here is some information to look at;

http://www.rheumatology.org/public/factsheets/psoriatic_new.asp?aud=pat

How psoriatic arthritis is treated

Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, which usually requires constant treatment, psoriatic arthritis may only require therapy when symptoms arise. When they subside, therapy can be stopped until further problems develop. Initial treatment usually consists of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or naproxen (Naprosyn). If the arthritis does not respond, disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may be used.

http://www.psoriasis.org/about/psa/

Approach to treatment

Treatment can relieve pain, reduce swelling, help keep joints working properly and possibly prevent further damage. Doctors will recommend treatments based on the type of psoriatic arthritis, its severity and an individual's reaction to treatment.


That said, I can tell you that there are rheumatologists that do NOT agree with the above statement. Doctor's cannot tell WHO will progress as there is NO WAY of telling therefor some dr's treat immediately with a DMARD or BIO.

I started on a nsaid and it was very apparent that it wasn't doing the job, I progressed rapidly and severely.

I would think active inflammation of any kind would mean that you are not in remission, but I'm not a doctor.

When is your next appointment and is your rheumatologist or his/her nurse available by phone?

Good questions to ask him/her.

Take care,
Karen

[evergreen]

I have been weening myself from Humira at my Rheumy's advice. I initially started injections every 2 weeks and am now at every 3 weeks; I'm going to move toward every 4 weeks next; as well, by my own reasoning, I am going to start taking 5mg MTX weekly instead of 7.5mg MTX weekly.

I had began to decrease my doses over the summer, however an ear infection that moved to my throat and sinuses, made the P & PA worse...

Currently I am doing better than ever. I have been tanning quite frequently lately , so maybe the 'light therapy' is helping my joints as well??? Also, I have been taking a multi-vitamin daily.

I would suggest to gradually lower your dosage/frequency...

Take care~
evergreen